
Keeps you gripped - As a first book in a set this is amazing. There is no slow start to this book as very soon in the main character Richard faces a few enemies that are chasing after Kahlan.This is the start of a set of books i m still half way through and i must admit they are very enjoyable. This one only scratches the surface and has quite a basic plot compared to the later books which is that Richard must defeat Darken Rahl.Though i do find the book slows down near the end but it is needed for the later books but this is the only bad thing i can say about this book.Well worth the read
A captivating take on high Fantasy - Terry Goodkind is to be commended. Not only for writing a wondrous piece of literature (and make no mistake, this IS wondrous) but for managing to both challenge and entertain consistently over the course of an extremely large novel. One or two may consider the almost extreme length a little too hardcore for their tastes, but trust me this isn t just for fantasy die-hards. Actually, in the end you ll find yourself wondering where all of those pages went as you whittle away countless hours lost in the magical world Goodkind has created.Much of this strength can be found in the writing itself, which is so good it almost compares to other novels as a fine wine would to cheap vodka. Admittedly, Goodkind is clearly aware of this, and at times he is prone to over-writing certain scenes, do not be surprised if a single movement dominates an entire page of prose. But in the end, is too much of a good thing ever really bad?The characters are another plus point, showing off hugley likeable traits and quirks mixed perfectly with human flaws. You ll find yourself chastising them for poor decisions throughout, yet will never waver in your support of them. To be fair, Richard is perhaps a little saintly at times, but that s hardly rare for the genre, and as for the reviewer who pointed to Kahlan being weak, well...let s just say he/she must have been reading a different book from me.The story is the sort of grand sweeping arc you d expect from such a series, and it ll keep you coming back for more. To be honest, it has a borderline drug-like quality, it sinks it s hooks into you early, and you ll find yourself a prisoner for quite some time.Note: The graphic violence may offend some, so it s probably better keeping it away from children and maybe even the more sensitive adults.Apart from those that may fall into the above category, I d recommend it wholeheartedly to anyone. Enjoy the ride!
sword of truth series by terry goodkind - I picked up the 1st of the sword of truth series wizards first rule in a charity shop for my son. I started reading it and it was so compelling i finished it in 3 days. I have now read the entire series at one book a week. Terry Goodkind has surpassed all expectations in this spellbinding series. The books were very well written and the story line was really good, it really drew you in so that you became part of the story. The series is an absolute must read, once you start you cannot stop. I feel very sad that the series has come to an end. I am sure anyone reading this series will be as delighted as i was.
Does this author compare to Katharine Kerr? - Hi, I haven t read this book, I am just fishing for something to read whilst I am waiting for Katharine Kerr to write her ultimate Deverry book. I have seen a lot of negative reviews about Goodkind s book and before I take the plunge and purchase, I was wondering if any Katharine Kerr most faithfull fans had read this book and if they would recommend it. Much obliged,
Not bad but... - From the start of the book I had quite high expectations as it started well and seemed promising. However, although there was huge potential with the characters and plot I was left feeling a little disappointed throughout the book for some of the following reasons:- the plot had great potential but lacked any depth and in many places was pretty obvious guess twists / outcomes. There were great creatures and places throughout the book that really added to the good point but these were rare and could have been of greater use. - for quite a weighty book there was hardly much character depth or variety. Sections which the author spent developing characters appeared righteous and repetitive. Being honest, I kind of lost hope of them developing in to something interesting.- the ending was a bit of an anti-climax. I was left a little disappointed that the characters had struggled throughout the book only to find that it ended so abruptly. All said and done, the book was over all enjoyable, therefore 3 stars. I m not sure I d recommend it to a friend though, unlike other books.As this has developed in to quite a large series I m left thinking that there must be something in the other books and I m hoping they re an improvement on this one as the author develops. I think I ll try the second in the series on the chance things do pick up, but am sceptical.